It is the stated objective of the Government to make Ireland a leader in tackling climate change. The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Climate Action was established last July and is due to give its conclusions and recommendations at the end of this month.
With representation from the main political parties, independent TDs and senators, the committee’s report will shape policy for future governments.
Thomas Hubert details the various representations made by farmer representatives here.
At the IFA AGM last week, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton suggested that limits could be placed on agriculture due to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This has raised concerns as to what recommendations may be contained in the committee’s report and how they will influence the minister’s All Government Climate Plan, due at the end of March.
Few would envy the job of the committee and its chair, Hildegarde Naughton, in trying to find a way through what is often a complex and scientific argument. However, while acknowledging the complexities, how we should produce food globally is clear from a scientific point of view: reduce GHG emissions per unit of production.
Balancing future food demand and fossil fuel reliance is the issue. On one side, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) forecasts that farmers will have to produce 70% more food by 2050. On the other, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recommends that up to 700m ha be converted from food production into energy crops to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Against this backdrop, reducing food production from carbon-efficient models is at odds with a global strategy. The committee has a wealth of evidence showing the credentials of Irish agriculture when it comes to emissions per kg of output.
Irish farmers are applying 25% less nitrogen per kilo of food produced than in 1990
The European Commission concluded that Irish dairy has the lowest carbon emissions in the EU per kilo of milk produced. We are the fifth lowest for beef.
While the committee cannot ignore the fact that agriculture contributes 32% of Ireland’s total emissions, it needs to be viewed differently to transport or energy. For example, policies that see a shift towards electric- or gas-powered vehicles deliver an emissions dividend nationally and globally. However, any curtailment of our grass-based beef and dairy sectors in chasing national targets only for production to shift to more emission-intense models elsewhere will have a negative global impact.
Some will argue that the solution is to reduce demand for dairy and beef. While the climate debate is likely to bring dietary changes, the FAO projects that global demand for dairy and beef will increase by more than 50% in the next 30 years. What must also be noted is that the environmental impact of many of the alternative protein sources being promoted is likely to receive much closer consumer attention in years to come.
No free pass for agriculture
No one is suggesting that agriculture should be given a free pass. While performing well by international standards, Teagasc, through its Marginal Abatement Cost Curve (MACC), has identified several measures that can be implemented on Irish farms to reduce emissions. Many are closely aligned to improving economic viability: better grassland management, low-emission slurry spreading, improved fertility and better genetics are just some of the areas where there is a double win for the environment and farm profitability.
Farmers have a good track record in this area. Teagasc research shows that through improved grassland management and more efficient use of fertilisers/manures, Irish farmers are applying 25% less nitrogen per kilo of food produced than in 1990. It is a journey that must continue and we are fortunate that, through Teagasc, a clear road map has been presented to the Oireachtas committee.
The Teagasc MACC identifies measures that can be taken at farm level to reduce methane and nitrous oxide and recognises the relationship between land management practice and the removal of carbon from the environment. It details the potential for the sector to displace fossil fuels through biomass and anaerobic digestion. With proper supports and accountancy procedures that reflect net emissions from the sector, Teagasc identifies the potential to reduce emissions by over 30% by 2030 – strengthening Ireland’s position as a global leader in environmentally sustainable food production.
Developing a national strategy to solve what is a global problem is complex. But the scientific consensus points to the fact that an absolute emissions ceiling on Irish agriculture would have long-term negative consequences for climate action globally.
If the Government wants to show leadership on climate change, any emissions target for agriculture should only be based on achieving a further reduction in emissions per kilo of production.
Climate leadership requires policy-makers to look beyond just achieving national targets.
Agri Careers Expo: showcasing career opportunities in Irish agriculture
There will be over 1,100 jobs available at the Agri Careers Expo in the RDS on 14 February.
The success of any sector is dependent on it being able to attract the brightest and best talent. The Irish Farmers Journal in association with Devenish is holding the Agri Careers Expo in the RDS on Thursday 14 February.
The event will showcase the diversity of opportunities within agriculture and the agri-food sector, with over 50 of Ireland’s leading businesses present at the RDS. Between them, they will be offering over 1,165 jobs on the day, ranging from farm operatives to senior management positions.
Those attending will also hear from industry leaders who have developed some of the country’s most successful businesses. Our Career Development Hub, in association with UCD Smurfit Executive Development, will advise on what steps you can take to ensure you are in a position to develop your career within your current workplace.
We have a unique industry in that it provides excellent opportunities regardless of academic successes. There are numerous examples of senior management in multimillion euro businesses having started on the factory floor. The agri-food sector recognises and is prepared to reward a strong work ethic.
To register for your free ticket, log on to www.agricareers.ie
Roadshow: mart demos to focus on achieving targets with healthy stock
Next week sees the Irish Farmers Journal kick off the Spring Health Management Roadshow in partnership with AXA Insurance.
Adam Woods profiles the series here, which involves seven mart demonstrations, starting in Carrigallen Mart, Co Leitrim, next Tuesday 12 February at 7pm.
The theme of the events is “Achieving targets with healthy stock this spring” and our specialist team along with our vet Tommy Heffernan will talk about different aspects of keeping calves healthy during this very busy period on Irish beef farms. Our markets specialist Phelim O’Neill will also be on hand to give farmers the most up-to-date developments in relation to Brexit, the current CAP review and market trends.
Labour: background checks essential
Farmers offering employment during the busy calving period should take all necessary steps to check the credentials and motives of those applying for work.
As Odile Evans writes, there are reports of dairy farmers being targeted by animal rights activists seeking to gain access to farms.
Proper reference checking, verification of previous employment and reviewing social media platforms should all reduce the risk of inadvertently letting those with alternative motives on to farms.
The seasonal demand for work in our dairy and beef farms is a huge opportunity for those who want the opportunity for extra work while allowing them continue an existing enterprise.
Most importantly, please ensure you and all farm help get the required sleep, food and water so safe and proper decisions are taken.
Grass: put a plan in place for grazing
There is grass on farms that have never had as much at this time of year. Exceptional growth rates are a lifeline to many. Grazing it is another matter. Take the opportunity in a planned way so that you allow enough feed for March grazing.
It is the stated objective of the Government to make Ireland a leader in tackling climate change. The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Climate Action was established last July and is due to give its conclusions and recommendations at the end of this month.
With representation from the main political parties, independent TDs and senators, the committee’s report will shape policy for future governments.
Thomas Hubert details the various representations made by farmer representatives here.
At the IFA AGM last week, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton suggested that limits could be placed on agriculture due to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This has raised concerns as to what recommendations may be contained in the committee’s report and how they will influence the minister’s All Government Climate Plan, due at the end of March.
Few would envy the job of the committee and its chair, Hildegarde Naughton, in trying to find a way through what is often a complex and scientific argument. However, while acknowledging the complexities, how we should produce food globally is clear from a scientific point of view: reduce GHG emissions per unit of production.
Balancing future food demand and fossil fuel reliance is the issue. On one side, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) forecasts that farmers will have to produce 70% more food by 2050. On the other, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recommends that up to 700m ha be converted from food production into energy crops to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Against this backdrop, reducing food production from carbon-efficient models is at odds with a global strategy. The committee has a wealth of evidence showing the credentials of Irish agriculture when it comes to emissions per kg of output.
Irish farmers are applying 25% less nitrogen per kilo of food produced than in 1990
The European Commission concluded that Irish dairy has the lowest carbon emissions in the EU per kilo of milk produced. We are the fifth lowest for beef.
While the committee cannot ignore the fact that agriculture contributes 32% of Ireland’s total emissions, it needs to be viewed differently to transport or energy. For example, policies that see a shift towards electric- or gas-powered vehicles deliver an emissions dividend nationally and globally. However, any curtailment of our grass-based beef and dairy sectors in chasing national targets only for production to shift to more emission-intense models elsewhere will have a negative global impact.
Some will argue that the solution is to reduce demand for dairy and beef. While the climate debate is likely to bring dietary changes, the FAO projects that global demand for dairy and beef will increase by more than 50% in the next 30 years. What must also be noted is that the environmental impact of many of the alternative protein sources being promoted is likely to receive much closer consumer attention in years to come.
No free pass for agriculture
No one is suggesting that agriculture should be given a free pass. While performing well by international standards, Teagasc, through its Marginal Abatement Cost Curve (MACC), has identified several measures that can be implemented on Irish farms to reduce emissions. Many are closely aligned to improving economic viability: better grassland management, low-emission slurry spreading, improved fertility and better genetics are just some of the areas where there is a double win for the environment and farm profitability.
Farmers have a good track record in this area. Teagasc research shows that through improved grassland management and more efficient use of fertilisers/manures, Irish farmers are applying 25% less nitrogen per kilo of food produced than in 1990. It is a journey that must continue and we are fortunate that, through Teagasc, a clear road map has been presented to the Oireachtas committee.
The Teagasc MACC identifies measures that can be taken at farm level to reduce methane and nitrous oxide and recognises the relationship between land management practice and the removal of carbon from the environment. It details the potential for the sector to displace fossil fuels through biomass and anaerobic digestion. With proper supports and accountancy procedures that reflect net emissions from the sector, Teagasc identifies the potential to reduce emissions by over 30% by 2030 – strengthening Ireland’s position as a global leader in environmentally sustainable food production.
Developing a national strategy to solve what is a global problem is complex. But the scientific consensus points to the fact that an absolute emissions ceiling on Irish agriculture would have long-term negative consequences for climate action globally.
If the Government wants to show leadership on climate change, any emissions target for agriculture should only be based on achieving a further reduction in emissions per kilo of production.
Climate leadership requires policy-makers to look beyond just achieving national targets.
Agri Careers Expo: showcasing career opportunities in Irish agriculture
There will be over 1,100 jobs available at the Agri Careers Expo in the RDS on 14 February.
The success of any sector is dependent on it being able to attract the brightest and best talent. The Irish Farmers Journal in association with Devenish is holding the Agri Careers Expo in the RDS on Thursday 14 February.
The event will showcase the diversity of opportunities within agriculture and the agri-food sector, with over 50 of Ireland’s leading businesses present at the RDS. Between them, they will be offering over 1,165 jobs on the day, ranging from farm operatives to senior management positions.
Those attending will also hear from industry leaders who have developed some of the country’s most successful businesses. Our Career Development Hub, in association with UCD Smurfit Executive Development, will advise on what steps you can take to ensure you are in a position to develop your career within your current workplace.
We have a unique industry in that it provides excellent opportunities regardless of academic successes. There are numerous examples of senior management in multimillion euro businesses having started on the factory floor. The agri-food sector recognises and is prepared to reward a strong work ethic.
To register for your free ticket, log on to www.agricareers.ie
Roadshow: mart demos to focus on achieving targets with healthy stock
Next week sees the Irish Farmers Journal kick off the Spring Health Management Roadshow in partnership with AXA Insurance.
Adam Woods profiles the series here, which involves seven mart demonstrations, starting in Carrigallen Mart, Co Leitrim, next Tuesday 12 February at 7pm.
The theme of the events is “Achieving targets with healthy stock this spring” and our specialist team along with our vet Tommy Heffernan will talk about different aspects of keeping calves healthy during this very busy period on Irish beef farms. Our markets specialist Phelim O’Neill will also be on hand to give farmers the most up-to-date developments in relation to Brexit, the current CAP review and market trends.
Labour: background checks essential
Farmers offering employment during the busy calving period should take all necessary steps to check the credentials and motives of those applying for work.
As Odile Evans writes, there are reports of dairy farmers being targeted by animal rights activists seeking to gain access to farms.
Proper reference checking, verification of previous employment and reviewing social media platforms should all reduce the risk of inadvertently letting those with alternative motives on to farms.
The seasonal demand for work in our dairy and beef farms is a huge opportunity for those who want the opportunity for extra work while allowing them continue an existing enterprise.
Most importantly, please ensure you and all farm help get the required sleep, food and water so safe and proper decisions are taken.
Grass: put a plan in place for grazing
There is grass on farms that have never had as much at this time of year. Exceptional growth rates are a lifeline to many. Grazing it is another matter. Take the opportunity in a planned way so that you allow enough feed for March grazing.
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